Convocation 2014

First job secured with first resume sent
NAFA diploma fresh graduates hired before receiving their graduation certificates

Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts (NAFA)Diploma in 3D Design (Interior Design) graduate Farida Zohair applied to international lighting design studio Klassen Lighting Design shortly after receiving her final exam results. She secured her first interview and started her first job as Junior Lighting Designer at the award-winning firm two weeks after her graduation show.

Diploma in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing graduate Sharon Beh met her future employer at the fashion graduation show held at National Design Centre. The confident young lady caught the eye of Catherine Yam, Vice President of Product Development at Ghimli Global, a public-listed apparel manufacturer whose clients include Macy’s, Aeropostale and Walmart. Sharon submitted her resume, nailed an interview and started work as a Fabric Developer also two weeks after the graduation show.

Other NAFA fresh graduates such as Wong Liang Pei, Diploma in Dance and Braudon Yeo, Diploma in Design & Media (Video Production) have also bagged jobs as a teacher with dACADEMY, Singapore’s first school of contemporary dance, and started work as Assistant Producer and 2nd Assistant Director for MediaCorp Channel 5’s sci-fi drama series 2025 respectively. These students are but a few among those who have found employment soon after receiving their final transcripts, before receiving their certificates, bearing testimony to NAFA’s industry-relevant programmes which produce graduates who are highly sought after by key players. According to the last Graduate Employment Survey in 2013, 88% of graduates received their first job offer within three months.

Farida, Sharon, Liang Pei and Braudon will join their numerous seniors who have entered the arts and creative industries since the pioneer batch graduated more than 70 years ago.

NAFA will witness the class of 2014 receive 785 diploma and degree certificates from 33 diploma and 9 degree courses this Saturday, 6 September 2014 at the annual Convocation Ceremony to be held at the NUS University Cultural Centre. DrYaacob Ibrahim, Minister for Communications and Information and Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs will grace the occasion as Guest of Honour at the morning ceremony and Mr Tay Guan Hin, Regional Executive Creative Director, South East Asia and Global ECD, JWT Singapore will preside over the afternoon ceremony.

Many accomplished artists, leaders, mentors and educators in the arts and creative industries have emerged from over 11,000 graduates who come from the folds of NAFA. They garner accolades and awards in international competitions and exhibitions and are an important source of manpower in an increasingly vibrant arts scene in Singapore and beyond.

Distinguished Alumni Medal Recipients

In 2009, NAFA established the Distinguished Alumni Medal to acknowledge such outstanding alumni, an accolade which hallmarks the Academy’s history of nurturing world class talent. This year’s honour goes to Dr Susie Lingham, Director of Singapore Art Museum and Dr Zechariah Goh Toh Chai, Head of Composition Studies at NAFA. DrLingham graduated with a Diploma in Fine Art in 1990 and is well-known for her contributions as a writer-artist, art theorist and art educator. Dr Goh graduated with a Diploma in Music in 1989 and has received numerous awards and commissions for his compositions which fuse Southeast Asian-Chinese with Western traditions.

Best Graduates 2014

Such illustrious alumni are encouragement for the young graduates who have chosen the path less travelled to fulfil their ambitions fuelled by talent and passion. NAFA also hands out the Best Graduate awards to recognise the efforts of passionate students who have received nods from industry players, actively engaged in work outside the classroom and attained much achievement during their short time at the Academy. Among these 19 top students are Wong Qin Kai, Bachelor of Music (Honours) who will also receive the Embassy of Peru Award, and Goh Jia Yin, Diploma in Dance who receives the NAFA President Award for their exemplary performance.

Annex 1 – Best Graduates 2014
Annex 2 – Distinguished Alumni Medal Recipients Citation
Annex 3 – Convocation Ceremony Programmes
Annex 4 – About NAFA and its programmes

NAFA Convocation 2014

Date	:	Saturday, 6 September 2014

Time	:	9am – 12pm (Ceremony A)
Guest of Honour	:	DrYaacob Ibrahim Minister for Communications and Information and Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs

Time	:	2pm – 4.45pm (Ceremony B)
Guest of Honour	:	Mr Tay Guan Hin, Regional Executive Creative Director, South East Asia and Global ECD, JWT Singapore

Allmembersofthemediaarecordiallyinvitedto the NAFAConvocationCeremony2014. Please RSVP for journalist/photographer/camera crew by 4 Sep (Thursday) to:

Hazel Chan
Media Relations Senior Manager
Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts
DID: 6512 4017 Mobile: 9144 0841 Email: mailto: [email protected]

Annex 1 – Best Graduates 2014

Bachelor of Music (Honours)
Wong Qin Kai / Male
Embassy of Peru Award

The recipient of the Embassy of Peru Award 2014 is Wong Qin Kai. Given Wong Qin Kai’s quiet demeanour, many would be surprised by the extent of his achievements. Apart from being a Best Graduate in the Diploma in Music programme and recipient of NAFA President Award in 2012, Qin Kai has won top prizes in both the solo and ensemble categories in the National Chinese Music Competition organised by the National Arts Council since 2004.

Qin Kai founded the Chinese string quintet StringWerkz to fulfil his passion for chamber music. In 2013, the quintet took part in the 3rd Terem Crossover International Music Competition in Russia and emerged as the only Asian finalist, winning diplomas "For achievements in the field of a live sound" and "For original arrangement". This win has fuelled his desire to promote and develop Chinese chamber music repertoire both locally and internationally.

Qin Kai strongly believes in contributing to society, and continues to be a guiding force in the local Chinese music community, serving as concert master for the Toa Payoh West Community Club Chinese Orchestra, as well as guest musician in such organisations as the Hsinghai Arts Association Chinese Orchestra. This is his way of paying forward all the support he has received from his family and teachers:

“I’m eternally grateful to my family for their support in my musical endeavours, all the teachers who played a part in shaping my ethos as a person and musician, and all the peers whom I’ve enjoyed playing music with. My achievements would not have been possible without them.”

Awards & achievements:

NAC Arts Scholarship (Undergraduate), 2012-2014
Finalist, Diploma "For achievements in the field of a live sound" and Diploma "For original arrangement", for StringWerkz at the 3^rdTerem Crossover International Music Competition in St. Petersburg, Russia, 2013
1^st prize, Ensemble Open Category, National Chinese Music Competition, National Arts Council, 2012

Events & activities:

Gaohu player in StringWerkz, performance at the Toa Payoh HDB Community Week, 2014
StringWerkz, NAFA Concert Series ‘Convergence’, Lee Foundation Theatre, 2014
Performance at the PAssion Arts Festival at Bishan Amphitheatre, 2013
StringWerkz, Singapore Federation of Chinese Clan Associations presents ‘乡情乡韵’, Singapore Conference Hall, 2013
Representing Singapore as gaohu player, Asia Traditional Orchestra concert in Gwangju, South Korea, 2013
Gaohu player in StringWerkz, ‘Closing Gala Concert, Terem Quartet and Competition Winners’, St. Petersburg, Russia, 2013
StringWerkz, Performance, ‘Musical Mosiac’, at the Esplanade Concourse, 2013
Performance at the Esplanade Concourse during Huayi Festival, ‘Joyous Melodies’, 2013
Guest gaohu player, ‘National Chinese Orchestra Marathon finale concert - A Music Showcase’, Singapore Chinese Orchestra, 2012
Performed gaohu, banhu and conducted orchestra at ‘Beautiful Sunday’, The Esplanade, 2012
Erhu soloist in the instrumental ensemble for the world premiere of opera‘Fences’ composed by John Sharpley, Lee Foundation Theatre, 2012

BA (Hons) Fine Art
Lee Wui Liang Henry

Henry Lee is a highly self-driven and talented student and artist. He has shown exemplary studentship in his years of study here at NAFA, taking on leadership roles in projects and events with his peers. He is well liked and trusted amongst his peers and lecturers.

His sensitivity towards his chosen medium of drawing can be felt even in the largest of his scroll works. His work confronts societal issues, yet at the same time impresses with its technical finesse. This is not left unnoticed, as his works have been exhibited and acquired in the past few years by private collectors and galleries.

Henry was nominated for the inaugural Prudential Singapore Young Artist Awards in 2013. He has won various scholarships and awards, including the NAFA President Award when he graduated from his Diploma course.

Awards & achievements:

NAFA Entry Scholarship (Degree), AY2013/2014
Nominee, Prudential Singapore Young Artist Awards, 2014
Best Submission, Feature Wall Design Competition for Sant Ritz, Santarli Realty Pte Ltd, Singapore, 2013

Events & activities:
Group Exhibitions:

NUSS Paint-A-Portrait Project, Kent Ridge Guild House, NUS, 2014
Storyteller: A Showcase, Kent Ridge Guild House, NUS, 2014
Hacked – The U Showcase, The U Factory, Gillman Barracks, Singapore, 2013
Time Craft – Where Art meets Horology, ION Orchard, Singapore, 2013
If Not Now, When?, NAFA Galleries 1 & 2, NAFA, 2013
Going Where? - A Group Show for Singapore Artists, ShanghART Singapore, 2013

BA (Hons) in Theatre Arts
Rossalina Binte Mohd Nasir

Rossalina has proven herself to be an excellent student at degree level. Her first class honours degree is a testament to her hard work, dedication to her art and passion for learning.

Rossalina’s love affair with the stage began at the tender age of 7 when she attempted to win a storytelling competition by improvising a story. That quickly turned into a lifelong passion for performing.

Trained as a percussionist for six years, Rossalina was a scholarship recipient from Berklee College of Music World Scholarship Tour in 2006 for Degree in Performance (Voice). She graduated from LASALLE SIA College of the Arts with a Diploma in Theatre Arts in 2007.

Rossalina dedicates herself to drama training for the youths. She writes and develops drama programmes and conducts drama workshops for students in secondary schools and tertiary institutions.

Awards & achievements:

NAFA Entry Scholarship (Degree), AY2013/2014

Events & activities:
Notable acting roles include:

The Jewish Wife in Bertolt Brecht's Fear and Misery in the Third Reich, 2014
Emily in Haresh Sharma's Offcentre, 2014
Siobhan in Simon Stephen's adaptation of The Curious Incident of the Dog in the Night-time, 2014
Joan in The Misanthrope, 2014
Mrs. Samsa in Franz Kafka’s Metamorphosis, 2013
Cookie in Neil Simon’s Rumors, 2013

Directing credits include:

Lindsay Price’s The Pregnancy Project, 2013
Midsummer Night’s Dream, 2013

BA (Hons) Spatial Design
Chew Jia Ying Karen

Prior to enrolling in NAFA, Karen has obtained a Diploma in Molecular Biotechnology from a local Polytechnic. Purely out of interest and curiosity, Karen first signed up a part-time certificate in Basic Interior Design with NAFA while working full time in a research laboratory. Never did she realise the action she has taken then, now marks the turning point of her career path. She then went on to pursue a 3-year full time diploma course with distinction and subsequently completed her BA (Hons) in Spatial Design with a 1^st Class Honours.

Karen believes that success in life is largely based on hard work, that one’s morals and character can be nurtured through hard work. Embarking on the Spatial Design programme meant having to put in a full sense of commitment and learning in all areas of work and constantly sustaining a progressive attitude throughout her study at NAFA.

Her bright and cheerful attitude in everything she does has driven her to achieve greater excellence while facing uncharted challenges in her artistic pursuit.

Driven by passion and a simple wish to bring emotional comfort through spatial elements, she aims to leave behind a legacy, where beautifully crafted design speaks it all.

Awards & Achievements:

Tan Chay Bing Entry Scholarship (Degree), AY2013/2014

Events & Activities:

Class representative for BA (Hons) Spatial Design, 2013-2014
Project published in LianheZaobao, 2013
Exhibited at NAFA Open House, 2013

BA (Hons) Graphic Communication
Raquel Fabienne Ang Rui Q

Raquel has always been a person full of curiosity; leaping into challenges just to create a different experience for herself.

A firm believer of "doing your best or not do it", Raquel enjoys designing using various softwares and methods.

The education in NAFA has challenged Raquel to push the boundaries and motivated her to better herself in every design attempt. Raquel’s graduation project has encapsulated the study of psychology, sociology, and interactive design; in which she asked critical questions and experimented with different forms of communication installations.

Raquel has also actively participated in design competitions such as Spike Asia, Portfolio Night, Crowbar Awards and Yahoo Singapore 9, as well as various industry projects and community events.

Besides achieving excellent academic result for her degree studies, Raquel finds satisfaction from helping out her classmates at events and running an online business of her own. It is her great spirit towards life that has won her the best graduate award of her degree cohort.

Awards & achievements:

Ngee Ann Kongsi Scholarship (Degree), AY2013/2014

BA (Hons) Fashion & Marketing
Lee Hui Teng, Chloe

Effectively bilingual, Chloe is very organised and proactive, and is quick to pick up new things.

Throughout her course of study, Chloe always approached her work with a commitment to developing her learning methodically and contentiously, projecting a good image through exemplary behaviour. Her contributions to class discussions were often insightful and inclusive, and she showed the ability to analyse, critique and evaluate found information.

A pleasant and enthusiastic student, Chloe is always supportive and helpful to her peers.

Awards & achievements:

NAFA Entry Scholarship (Degree), AY2013/2014

Events & Activities:

Class representative for BA (Hons) Fashion & Marketing, 2013-2014

BA (Hons) Creative Industry Management
Choo Joo Kee, Jill (Zhu Ruqi)

Jill has participated actively in the Singapore visual arts scene. She was Booth Manager at the Affordable Art Fair for two consecutive years in 2012 and 2013 and was provided with the opportunity to intern at various galleries such as Sundaram Tagore Gallery at Gillman Barracks.

In the performing arts scene, Jill was a crew member of The Singapore Night Festival (2012) managing street performers. She also assisted at other events such as The Presenting Company for theatre productions.

Jill was also selected to participate in the Literature Camp at the National University of Singapore in 2009, and as English Host of the Chinese Opera Institute Book Launch in 2014.

Not considering herself an artist, she prefers the backstage, working behind the scenes as the “control freak”, to ensure the event is “hiccup free”. She hopes to be remembered as one who has done something for the arts landscape in Singapore.

Jill dedicates this award to her mother, an engineer for deep sea testing who always does her best.

Jill is the best graduate of the BA (Hons) Creative Industry Management for her excellent research work and for steeping herself in the arts as a way of life and work. Her goal is to bring the arts to the community and enrich people’s lives with it.

Events & Activities:

Booth Manager, Affordable Art Fair, 2012 and 2013
Crew member, The Singapore Night Festival, 2012

BA (Hons) 3D Design: New Practice
Ms Ng Mei Ling

Taking a leap of faith, Ng Mei Ling, a Hwa Chong Institute graduate designed her path towards the creative and unknown 4 years back. Meiling has received her fruits of labour last year with a Diploma in 3D Design (Furniture Design) with Distinction and today, the Best Graduate Award from BA(Hons) 3D Design: New Practice.

Over the course of her studies, Meilinghas exhibited her works at International Furniture Fair Singapore 2013 in Expo and collaborative work for the Interdisciplinary Project, Ecology in the Urban City (2013) in Lim Hak Tai Gallery at NAFA. Her works were also featured in the media such as in The Business Times (2013) and Surface Asia Magazine (2013).

From the opposite spectrum, Meiling has made an impression with both the Academy and public, being spotted as the queen of melodic voice and a maker of large-scale and industrial works. These qualities were believed and developed and tested through her determination and self-belief.

Meiling believes that design should breathe new life into everyday products and furniture, hence bringing joy to society through tangible designs and intangible experiences. She aspires to develop a line of products or furniture which emphasises the very joy of interaction, fun and tactile experiences that would engage the end users.

Awards & Achievements:

Best Studentship Award (Furniture Design Major), 3DD Graduation Show
The Awoken Flock, 2012-2013

Events & Activities:

Participated and exhibited works at Ecology In The Urban City, 2013
Exhibited at Platform At International Furniture Fair Singapore, 2013
Exhibited at Saturday in Design with Kokuyo& Space Matrix (2012)
Exhibited at after2 – RAW , 2012

Diploma in Fine Art (Printmaking)
Sheila Chow Hui Niang

As the Chairperson for the Fine Art Graduation Show Student Committee, Sheila has demonstrated fairness and strong leadership in leading her team to successfully accomplish the requirements of the show.

One who meets all adversaries with a smile, Sheila is driven by her passion for the art to strive constantly for the best possible results collectively for her class and individually for her own artistic development.

Within the studio, Sheila Chow can always be found deep in her explorations in printmaking methods and beyond. Her perseverance has paid off as she was awarded Scholarships during her studies at NAFA.

Awards and achievements

Lee Foundation Academic Achievement Scholarship, AY2013/2014
Ngee Ann Kongsi Scholarship (Diploma), AY2012/2013

Events and Activities

Chairperson, Fine Art Graduation Show Student Committee, 2014

Group Exhibitions:

Ecology in the Urban City (NAFA Interdisciplinary Project), NAFA, 2013
Skins of a City (Japan & Hong Kong study trip), NAFA, 2013
Wisdom Beyond Borders, NAFA, 2011

Diploma in Dance (Choreography)
Goh Jia Yin (Wu Jiayin)
NAFA President Award

Jia Yin is an exceptional dancer – talented, intelligent and beautiful.

Although Jia Yin’s exposure to various dance forms such as Chinese Dance, Contemporary Dance and Latin Ballroom began at the age of 12, it was not until she completed a Business degree at Singapore Management University (SMU), that she decided to pursue a Diploma in Dance at NAFA.

Jia Yin’s prolific performance record at NAFA saw her selected by renowned choreographers to dance in their works presented at major performance platforms and venues.

Her interest in creating dance works also saw her choreography selected for Crossings: Dance Diploma Showcase 2014.

Currently a dancer with the T.H.E Second Company, Jia Yin’s journey in dance will continue at Purchase Conservatory of Dance, New York where she has been accepted into the BFA Dance programme under the prestigious NAC Arts Scholarship (Undergraduate).

Awards and achievements

NAFA Scholarship, AY2013/2014
NAFA Scholarship, AY2012/2013
Ngee Ann Kongsi Merit Award, AY2011/2012

Events and activities:
Crossings: Dance Diploma Showcase, Lee Foundation Theatre, NAFA

Failed Analysis of a Yoyo by WallieWolfgruber, 2014
This Person is a Country by Molly Poerstel, 2014
The Horizon by Zhang Xiao Xiong, 2013
When the line dissolves by WallieWolfgruber, 2013
Beyond Time by Larry Clark, 2012
KrouwNai by PichetKlunchun, 2012

Still Waters Run Deep (NAFA’s 75th Anniversary Dance Production), Esplanade Theatre

Swirling by Jeffrey Tan, 2013
Everything and Nothing by James Cousins, 2013

The Third Space Series, Recital Studio, Esplanade

Banwa by FilomarTariao, 2012
Incense by Gillian Tan, 2011

Diploma in Design & Media (Advertising)
Amanda LerLiyun

Amanda’s passion for advertising has pushed her beyond simply meeting the course requirements. She believes a single spark of idea can do awesome changes to the world; this has been Amanda’s inspiration in her strive for excellence in advertising.

As a student, Amanda has continuously sought to gain work experience to help her ‘open doors’ and ease into the advertising industry. Her internship stints include JWT Singapore and Blak Labs.

Academically, Amanda has done well. It was her passion with a relentless attitude to make a difference as a young creative that has earned her this award.

Awards and achievements:

Tan Chin Tuan Scholarship for Creative Education (Diploma), AY2013/2014
Ngee Ann Kongsi Merit Award (Diploma), AY2012/2013
Tan Chay Bing Entry Scholarship (Diploma), AY2011/2012
2 Golds, 1 Silver and 2 Bronzes, Crowbar Awards 2013

Events and activities:

Participated in Spikes Asia Young Creative Academy, 2013

Diploma in Music Teaching
Fam Hui Yuen

During her three years at NAFA, Hui Yuen has exuded an ability to explore and learn that has stretched her range of interests substantially. She embraced opportunities to create new experience for herself as a musician either through cross disciplinary collaborations at NAFA and overseas or performing on stage with NAFA Chorus and Singapore Symphony Chorus in Esplanade Concert Hall.

It was through her experience as a composer that Hui Yuen found her artistic flair. In the Ode my Life! Project, Hui Yuen collaborated with students from the Departments of 3D Design and Fine Art to create Peranakan music for solo tenor and harpsichord. In 2014, her composition Distant was selected and read by Singapore Symphony Orchestra in SSO Young Composer Reading Workshop. Early this year, she was accepted into the Music Summer Academy of Dulwich International College where she studied with French composer, Thierry Lancino, a former artistic staff at the IRCAM (Institut de Recherche et Coordination Acoustique/Musique).

Hui Yuen displayed her leadership quality in volunteer work as student leader during the NAFA Open House and Orientation.

Awards & Achievements

Composition Distant selected and played by Singapore Symphony Orchestra, 2014
NAFA Representative – Student Educational and Cultural Trip to Stuttgart and Blackforest Germany; sponsored by Stuttgart Singapore, 2013

Events & Activities

Composed music, and performed Kong Vong Thom and Ching (Traditional Cambodian Music) for Dance Horizon Troupe (Singapore), University Cultural Centre, 2013
Arranged music and performed drum at Thailand: Silent Actors, Studio Theatre, NAFA, 2013
Composed Solitary and performed (solo piano) for dancers at Dance Department: Final Performance, NAFA, 2013
Alto (NAFA Chorus) NAFA 75th Anniversary Concert, Esplanade Concert Hall, 2013
Alto (Singapore Symphony Chorus) War Requiem by Britten, Esplanade Concert Hall, 2013
Student leader, NAFA Open House, 2012
Student leader, NAFA Orientation, 2012

Diploma in Fashion Design
Erica Devi Handika

Erica Devi Handika achieved excellent results in both practice and theory. She exudes an unbridled passion to learn and hone her craft, always participating and engaging in all aspects of the course and beyond – learning to knit through extra curricula activity – a skill which she used to excellent affect in her final collection.

Her commitment and determination paid off when she was selected as a finalist in the Star Creation Award, an international contest held in conjunction with Audi Fashion Week, where designers from the region were judged by national and international names such as fashion critique and author Colin McDowell. Erica featured her hand woven and knitted designs that were painstakingly manufactured, showcasing her dexterity and creativity.

She was also among the students selected to showcase her design at the LianheZaobao 90^th anniversary celebrations parade at Marina Bay Sands held in conjunction with the Fide Fashion Week.

Erica is professional and astute, and has, during her three years, shown good interpersonal skills and leadership qualities. She is highly respected by her peers - many of whom have become her closest friends and part of her wonderful journey at NAFA.

Awards and achievements

Tan Chay Bing Scholarship (Diploma), AY2013/2014
Tan Chay Bing Scholarship (Diploma), AY2012/2013
Tan Chay Bing Entry Bursary (Diploma), AY2011/2012
Finalist in the Star Creation Award, an international contest set by Audi Fashion Week, 2014

Events and activities

Selected to participate in LianheZaobao 90^th Anniversary celebrations parade, 2013

Diploma in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing
Wee Li Pin Regina

Regina’s outstanding academic performance in the last three years is a testament to her commitment to her programme of study.

She displayed immense and sustained interest to her studies, enjoying the learning experience. Her work often went beyond the actual requirements of the module.
As a student, her maturity and dexterity, her resourcefulness, and her ability to stay focused are qualities to be emulated.

Regina with her highly motivated engagement in learning, always tackled new challenges positively and with a professional attitude. These qualities, together with her determination and enthusiasm will serve her well in her future pursuits.

Awards and achievements

Ngee Ann Kongsi Entry Scholarship (Diploma), AY2013/2014
Ngee Ann Kongsi Scholarship (Diploma), AY2012/2013
Ngee Ann Kongsi Scholarship (Diploma), AY2011/2012

Diploma in Art (Teaching)
AdibahAzri Binte Zulkifli

Adibah is a student leader in the cohort. She is always listening, showing her capability to build strong rapport with the teammates and her bubbly personality never fails to bring joy to those around her. She also exhibits critical thinking, and is able to resolve issues with thoughtfulness and maturity.

She demonstrates great passion in art education throughout her three years in NAFA, as she believes that ‘passion’ is the most important aspect of developing young talents for our country.

Events and Activities

Chairperson, Diploma in Art (Teaching) Graduation Show Committee, 2014
Assistant Instructor, Bukit Panjang Government High School Attachment Programme, 2013

Diploma in Art Management (Performing Arts)
Lim Hui

Lim Hui lives by Abraham Lincoln's wisdom which is "I do the very best I know how, the very best I can, and I mean to keep doing so until the end."

He is the man to count on if one needs a leader who can overcome challenges and odds to successfully complete a task.

Lim Hui is a student counsellor in school but works part time since 2010 as a Life Skills Coach for Adam Khoo Learning Technologies Group and Camp Instructor for Adventure Plus. He was the Chairperson of the cohort's graduation project, leading 50 students to successful completion of the department's first special project concept. With his excellent attributes, Lim Hui is in almost every aspect we desire in a student.

Events and activities

Chairperson, Diploma in Arts Management Graduation Show Committee, 2014

Diploma in Music
Lin Jiaxin

Lin Jiaxin’s musical talents were discovered when she first started playing the piano at the age of 6. She entered the Fujian Arts Vocational College in China when she was 11. Since then she has pursued her passion in piano performance, clinching prizes and awards in various competitions. She has shown steadfastness and confidence on stage, and is able to draw a beautiful singing tone from the instrument.

In her 1st year of diploma studies, not only did she top the piano concerto competition, she also emerged as the overall winner for the Music Essentials Concerto Prize in the Grand Finals, and performed the Liszt Piano Concerto No. 2 with NAFA orchestra conducted by Maestro Lim Yau.

Jiaxin is unassuming and quiet by nature, but she is intelligent and determined. She knows what her priorities are, and has set her heart to accomplish her goals in life.

Jiaxin is more than just a talented soloist, she is also a versatile and sensitive collaborative musician.

Awards & Achievements:

NAFA Entry Merit Award, AY2011/2012
3rd Prize, 6th Lucien Wang Piano Competition, 2014
2nd Award, Singapore International Youth Piano Competition, 2013
Winner/ First Prize, NAFA - Music Essentials Concerto Competition, 2012

Events & Activities:

Piano solo performance, NAFA Evening Piano Concert, 2013
Piano solo performance, Winning Keys Concert, 2012
Performed Liszt Concerto No. 2 with conductor Maestro Lim Yau and NAFA Orchestra in the Gala Concert, 2012
Piano solo performance, Mr. Ong Lip Tat’s student concert (Singapore & Malaysia), 2012
Piano solo performance, Piano Masterpieces Concert, 2011
Piano solo performance, National Art College Students Piano New Year Concert, 2011

Diploma in 3D Design
Foo Li May

Li May is a student with positive work attitude. Her drive and passion is evident as she makes every effort to constantly improve and challenge herself. She is very meticulous in her work, and has been working to handle both details and concepts equally.

Over her course of studies, she has participated in several competitions and real-life projects. Her most notable achievement was being awarded in a US-based store design competition organised by Planning and Visual Education Partnership (PAVE)-the second prize amongst hundreds of other entries from students across the globe.

An inspiration to all around her, Li May’s confidence and sheer determination will place her in good stead wherever she goes.

Awards & Achievements:

NAFA ASEAN Grant (Diploma), AY2013/2014
NAFA ASEAN Grant (Diploma), AY2012/2013
2nd Prize, PAVE Sephora Merchandising Counter Design, 2014
Merit Award, SPADE AWARD Retail Design, 2014
First Prize, Grand Winning Team, Singaplural 48 Hours Showroom Makeover Challenge, 2013

Events & Activities:

NAFA 3DD Graduation Show Committee (Exhibition Design Team), 2014
NATAS Travel Fair 2014 – STA Promotional Booth, 2014
Alchemy-ism The Wonder Kid- Wall Installation and Outdoor Installation, 2013
Participated in Solitxist, a NAFA Inter-Disciplinary Project Performance Arts project, 2013
Design Assistant, NOISE Singapore, 2013
Student Ambassador, NAFA Orientation, 2012

Diploma in Theatre
Tang Huan

Tang Huan has performed very well academically and has maintained a high GPA throughout her studies at NAFA. She was the vice leader for her class and has also actively participated in school events such as the NAFA Open House.

Tang Huan started dancing at a tender age of 6 under the guidance of a professional dance teacher and entered a Shanghai Dance School at 11. With a strong dance background, she joined NAFA’s Department of Theatre at 16.

Tan Huan was one of the leading actors in On the Train of Life which was staged as part of NAFA 75th Anniversary celebrations. She also represented NAFA to perform at the Asia Theatre Education Centre (ATEC) International Forum in China which received excellent reviews.

Awards & Achievements:

Awarded China Arts Council Chinese Dance Level 3 Qualification for Dance Teaching, 2013

Events & Activities:

Halloween Performance, Universal Studio Singapore, 2013
Performed at the ATEC 8th International Forum opening ceremony, 2013
Performed at the NAFA 75th Anniversary Fundraising Gala Dinner and Concert, 2013
Performed at the Universal Studio Singapore Opening Ceremony, 2012
Performed at the 2nd ATEC Asian Theatre Schools Festival, 2012
Performed at Singapore Chinese Spring Gala Festival, 2012

Notable acting roles include:

Pantalone and Clarice in Italian Commedia De Arte, 2014
Mihayi in Taste of Life, 2014
Mistress, Mouse and Cat in Solo Flight - Cheese Twister, 2013
Peter Nofuna and female cat Jimofeier in Malaysia Secondary School Theatre Competition, 2013
Ju-er and Qin-er in Tangyin and Qiuxiang, 2013
Female cat Jimofeier and Old Women Mata in On The Train of Life, 2013
De Ling and Si Xi in De Ling and Ci Xi, 2012
Peter Nofuna , Jimofeier , Mata and Mr. Ivankov in Anton Chekov’s Four Short Stories, 2012

Annex 2 – Distinguished Alumni Medal Recipients Citation

Dr Susie Lingham

Dr Susie Lingham’s work is many-faceted: as a writer-artist, art theorist and art educator, she synthesizes interdisciplinary ideas relating to the nature of mind across different fields, from the humanities to the sciences. With over twenty years of experience in the arts, Susie is a familiar face in the local arts scene. She is an interdisciplinary and independent thinker, writer and maker in the arts, working within and across contemporary art theories and practices. Her own artistic practice incorporates writing, visual arts, sound and performance.

Susie received her Diploma in Fine Art from NAFA in 1990, graduating with the Merit Award for outstanding performance. She holds an MA (Honours) in Writing from University of Western Sydney, a Postgraduate Diploma in Teaching Higher Education from NIE/NTU, Singapore, and a DPhil (Doctor of Philosophy) in Literature, Religion and Philosophy from the University of Sussex, UK.

In August 2013, Susie was appointed as the Director of the Singapore Art Museum (SAM), and is the third Director since its opening in 1996. Prior to her current appointment, she was an Assistant Professor at the Visual and Performing Arts academic group at the National Institute of Education, Singapore. She has also taught at universities and art colleges in Australia, the United Kingdom, and Singapore, including her alma mater, NAFA.

In the early 1990s, Susie was the co-founder-director of the now defunct art collective 5^th Passage Artists Ltd. – a non-profit public company, one of the first of its kind in Singapore. As a ground-up initiative, 5th Passage was, for most of its existence, independently working with, and for, different sectors of Singapore society, without government funding.Susie also co-founded the BookTheatre, an original “visual theatre” concept, creating shows that were performed in public venues and schools.

Susie is a founding member of the International Association of Art Critics (AICA), Singapore Section. As an independent writer, Susie contributed the essay ‘Mediated Thresholds: Between Ideal, Image, and Experience’for the Singapore Biennale 2011 publication Open House, and the essay ‘A Quota on Expression: Visions, Vexations & Vanishings’ for the Singapore Art Museum’s publication Negotiating Home, History and Nation: two decades of contemporary art in Southeast Asia (2011). Between February and March 2012, Susie presented Art & Ideas: a series of five public lectures, for the Art Appreciation Lecture Series at the Singapore Art Museum. Susie’s solo visual art exhibitionTurn was presented by The Substation, Singapore, in November 2012, and opened with elsewhere|erehwsele, aperformance work featuring sound and poetry, choreographed movement, and vocals.

In her various and diverse roles, and particularly in her current role as Director of SAM, Susie engages with the creative process intimately, and much of her work is to actively bridge different audiences and contexts. Focused on art making, art thinking and art appreciation as a catalyst for mediation and positive change in society, Susie thrives on making ‘big ideas’ manifest, and inspiring new ways of knowing. She deeply values the generative and transformative process when working with people from all paths of life.

Dr Zechariah Goh Toh Chai

Dr Zechariah Goh Toh Chai graduated from NAFA in 1989 with a Diploma in Music. He began his piano lessons with Ong Lip Tat, harmony with Phoon Yew Tien and counterpoint with Leong Yoon Pin while pursuing his Diploma at NAFA. In 1999, he received the David and GundaHiebert Scholarship to pursue his Master of Piano from University of Kansas.

Subsequently, he pursued his Doctorate degree majoring in Composition and at the same time, studied Orchestration and Arrangement for Band. Zechariah was awarded the prestigious Anthony Cius Prize for outstanding student composer from the University of Kansas in 2001 and 2002.

Currently Head of Composition of the Department of Music at NAFA, Zechariah has carefully fused South East Asian-Chinese with Western traditions in his works ranging from choir, symphonic band, wind ensemble, chamber music to large scale orchestral works.

As a composer, he is frequently commissioned to compose music for symphonic bands and choirs. Since the 1990s, his choral works have been premiered in Singapore as well as winning many international competitions in Austria, Brazil, Germany, Greece, China, Indonesia, Hong Kong, Taiwan, Malaysia and USA. Zechariah has also been commissioned by SYC Ensemble Singers , Singapore Symphony Orchestra, Singapore National Youth Orchestra, The Philharmonic Winds, The West winds, University of Kansas Wind Ensemble and National Arts Council of Singapore, just to name a few.

Zechariah is also an active speaker at international music conferences. He was invited to judge international choral and band competitions such as the Voyage of Songs, and Taiwan Band Director’s Association Band Competition. For his outstanding achievements in the field of music, Zechariah was conferred the prestigious Young Artist Award (Music) in 2003 by the National Arts Council, Singapore and the Artistic Excellence Award in 2013 by the Composers and Authors Society of Singapore.

Annex 3 – Convocation Ceremony Programmes

Ceremony A

9.00am	Arrival of guests

9.30am	Guests to be seated

10.00am	Grand Procession

10.05am	The National Anthem

10.05am	Welcome Address by NAFA President Mr Chia Mia Chiang

10.10am	Address by Guest of Honour DrYaacob Ibrahim Minister for Communications and Information and Minister-in-Charge of Muslim Affairs

10.15am	Presentation of Diplomas Diploma in 3D Design (Environmental Design) Diploma in 3D Design (Exhibition Design) Diploma in 3D Design (Furniture Design) Diploma in 3D Design (Interior Design) Diploma in 3D Design (Jewellery Design) Diploma in 3D Design (Object Design) Diploma in Art (Teaching) Diploma in Arts Management (Performing Arts) Diploma in Arts Management (Visual Arts) Diploma in Music Diploma in Music Teaching Diploma in Theatre (English Drama) Diploma in Theatre (Mandarin Drama)

	Presentationof Degrees Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Spatial Design Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Creative Industry Management Bachelor of Arts (Hons) in Theatre Arts Bachelor of Music (Hons)

11.10am	Presentation of Awards Diploma with Distinction Best Graduate Awards Embassy of Peru Award NAFA President Award Distinguished Alumni Medal

11.45am	Valedictorian Speech Screening of Convocation Video

11.55am	NAFA Song Performance

11.58am	The Procession Retires

12.00pm	End of Ceremony / Reception

Ceremony B

2.00pm	Arrival of guests

2.30pm	Guests to be seated

3.00pm	Grand Procession

3.05pm	Welcome Address by NAFA President Mr Chia Mia Chiang

3.10pm	Address by Guest-of-Honour Mr Tay Guan Hin Regional Executive Creative Director, South East Asia and Global ECD JWT Singapore

3.15pm	Presentation of Diplomas Diploma in Dance Diploma in Dance (Choreography) Diploma in Dance (Performance) Diploma in Dance (Teaching) Diploma in Design and Media (Advertising) Diploma in Design and Media (Animation) Diploma in Design and Media (Graphic Design) Diploma in Design and Media (Illustration Design) Diploma in Design and Media (Interactive Media) Diploma in Design and Media (Video Production) Diploma in Multimedia Diploma in Visual Communication Diploma in Fashion Design Diploma in Fashion Merchandising & Marketing Diploma in Fine Art (Ceramics) Diploma in Fine Art (Chinese Ink Painting) Diploma in Fine Art (Photography) Diploma in Fine Art (Printmaking) Diploma in Fine Art (Sculpture) Diploma in Fine Art (Western Painting)

	Presentation of Degrees Bachelor of Arts (Hons) 3D Design: New Practice Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Fine Art Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Graphic Communication Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Fashion Bachelor of Arts (Hons) Fashion and Marketing

4.10pm	Presentation of Awards Diploma with Distinction Best Graduate Award

4.30pm	Valedictorian Speech Screening of Convocation Video

4.40pm	NAFA Song Performance

4.43pm	The Procession Retires

4.45pm	End of Ceremony / Reception

Annex 4 – About NAFA

Founded in 1938, the Nanyang Academy of Fine Artsisth eoldest tertiaryartsinstitution in Singapore. ItisregisteredwiththeCouncilforPrivateEducation,Singaporeandisfunded atpolytechnic-level by theMinistryofEducation,Singapore.NAFAhaseightDepartments:3DDesign,ArtsManagement andEducation,Design andMedia,FineArt,FashionStudies,Dance,Music andTheatre. Adiverse rangeoffull-timediploma coursesis availableandit also delivers degree programmesin partnership with reputable universitiesfrom Singapore, the UK and USA.

NAFAgraduatesarewidelyrecognised fortheircreativityandpracticalskillsthatstandthemingood steadinanincreasinglycompetitivecreativeartsemploymentmarket,withmany findingjobswithin3 monthsaftergraduation.Manyhavegoneontomakeanimpactintheirfieldofpractice.The Academyhasnurtured12CulturalMedallionrecipients,Singapore’shighestaccoladebestowedto artspractitionerswhohavemadesignificantimpactintheartsandculture,andanother13alumni havebeenpresentedthe YoungArtist Award. Each year,morethan100studentsandteachingstaff win awards and accolades at local and international competitions.

NAFAalsoextendsitsreachtotheyoungandadultsinabidtopromotegreaterappreciation forthe arts.TheSchoolofYoung Talentsoffersweekend coursesinart,music,dance and dramafor4to 18 year olds, whilst the Continuing Education Branch offers enrichment courses and part-time certificate programmes for adults.

Witharich heritage andlongtradition ofexcellence, track record andstrongfundamentals inplace, NAFA is poised to continue to champion the development of arts education in Singapore andbeyond.

Programmes in NAFA

The 3D Design Department provides a multidisciplinary learning experience that combines spatial and three-dimensional design practices with technical competencies, and a conducive learning environment for critical and creative thinking. Students are provided with ample opportunities to participate in various design projects in partnership with established industry players and prominent competitions in Singapore and the world. The Department conducts degree programmes, namely BA (Hons) 3D Design: New Practice in collaboration with Loughborough University (UK), and BA (Hons) Spatial Design in collaboration with University of Central Lancashire (UK).

The Design and Media Department provides students with holistic training within the area of design and media. Students are provided with the opportunity to explore traditional design methodologies and implement these with new media practices. Its curriculum is designed to equip students with strong foundation skills in their first year, and specialised skills in advertising, animation, graphic design, illustration design, interactive media and video production in their second year. The Department offers a BA (Hons) Graphic Communication programme in collaboration with Loughborough University (UK), combining technical expertise with critical, conceptual thinking and BA (Hons) Visual Communication with Business, a collaborated hybrid programme between NAFA and SIM University.

Comprising visual arts and performing arts majors, the Arts Management and Education Department offers two diploma programmes. The Diploma in Arts Management programme equips students with industry relevant knowledge and practical skills. The Diploma in Art (Teaching) programme collaborates with the National Institute of Education to train art teachers for local secondary schools. The degree course in collaboration with the University of Essex (UK) offers further training to enhance both technical and cognitive skills of students.

The Dance Department is distinctive in its contemporary East-West posture, focusing on Western and Asian dance techniques, creative and contextual studies that include intercultural and multidisciplinary collaborative opportunities. In addition, the Department reinforces its education framework with rigorous practical technique training in ballet and modern dance. The first-of-its-kind BFA Dance degree programme affords selected NAFA Diploma in Dance graduates the opportunity to study at Purchase College, State University of New York for a year.

The Fashion Studies Department provides training that encompasses much more than the creation of clothing and accessories, but design knowledge, vocabulary, and an understanding of the fashion industry, its players, markets, and in particular, the vital role that fashion designers play–to prepare them for the challenges of fashion industry in the 21st century. BA (Hons) Fashion and BA (Hons) Fashion and Marketing programmes in collaboration with University of East London (UK) help students realise their creative potential through challenging modules, external connections and extended learning opportunities.

The Department of Fine Art exposes students to both traditional and contemporary art practices, through research-based practice and experiential learning. Students can choose to specialise in painting, Chinese ink painting, printmaking, sculpture, ceramics or photography. Diploma students can go on to read for a BA (Hons.) degree programme in collaboration with Loughborough University (UK).

The Music Department offers professional training in both Western and Chinese music at diploma and degree levels. Students are allowed to select one of the following as their principal study: composition, piano, organ, voice, flute, oboe, clarinet, bassoon, saxophone, horn, trumpet, trombone, euphonium, tuba, violin, viola, violoncello, double bass, harp, classical guitar, erhu, yangqin, pipa, zhongruan, suona and guzheng. The Department also offers Diploma in Music Teaching in collaboration with the National Institute of Education. The Bachelor of Music (Hons) programme is conducted in partnership with the world-renowned conservatory, Royal College of Music, London.

The Theatre Department draws upon various vocational training philosophies and pedagogical approaches from different theatrical cultures and aesthetic traditions to develop a unique curriculum. Over the last decade, the Department has supplied many artistic talents for the vibrant performing arts and entertainment industries in Singapore and beyond. BA (Hons) Theatre Arts is conducted incollaboration with University of Essex (UK).